How to Improve Indoor Air Quality with HVAC

Improve Your Indoor Air Quality with Oxford Mechanical

Indoor air quality is key to health, comfort, and overall well-being. Since many of us spend most of our time indoors, clean and breathable air should be a priority. But how do we improve indoor air quality?

The answer lies with Heating, Venting, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. HVAC systems are a major part of controlling and improving air quality by filtering pollutants, controlling humidity, and ensuring ventilation. At Oxford Mechanical, we are the local HVAC experts in the Ann Arbor area, using regular maintenance and servicing of HVAC systems to make indoor air quality better, healthier and more comfortable for homes and businesses.

HVAC and Indoor Air Quality

HVAC systems control indoor air quality by controlling air flow and filtering airborne particles. They are designed to manage common pollutants found in homes and businesses such as dust, pollen and mold spores, which can affect health and comfort. By filtering and circulating air, HVAC systems reduce the concentration of these pollutants and create a cleaner environment.

Most importantly, regular servicing of HVAC systems is crucial as a well serviced system not only runs more efficiently, but also contributes to healthier indoor air by preventing contaminants from building up and ensuring proper filtration.

How HVAC Servicing Improves Air Quality

Regular servicing is essential for maintaining and improving indoor air quality. Key aspects include:

Regular Air Filter Maintenance:
- Air filters stop dust, allergens and harmful particles from circulating indoors.
  - This results in better respiratory health, reduced allergies, and more consistent airflow throughout the home or business.
  - This is especially important in colder climates like Ann Arbor.
Professional Air Duct Cleaning:
- Cleaning ducts prevents pollutants like mold, dirt and debris from building up.
- This prevents pollutants from degrading air quality or causing blockages, resulting in better system efficiency and airflow.
Maintenance and Upgrades of HVAC Parts
- Regular inspections and servicing of parts like coils and fans prevents bacteria and dust from building up.
- Upgrades like HEPA filters or advanced air purifiers further improves air quality by tackling micro particles and pathogens.
- These reduce the risk of costly repairs and keep the system running.
Advanced Technologies for Air Quality:
- Great for people with asthma or allergies, this can be an additional layer of protection against contaminants.

When to Service Your HVAC

Watch for these signs that indicate your HVAC system needs servicing:

Persistent Allergies: If you or your family are experiencing worsening allergies, it could be a sign of poor indoor air quality which is often caused by an unclean or inefficient HVAC system.
Moldy or Unpleasant Smells: Odors that linger may be caused by mold, mildew or excessive dust in the system or ductwork.
Temperature Fluctuations: Uneven heating or cooling throughout your home could mean your unit is not working properly.
Rising Energy Bills: A sudden increase in utility bills without any changes in usage may mean your system is struggling to run efficiently.

Benefits for Business Owners

Servicing your HVAC provides many benefits for business owners – even more than just a comfortable and healthy environment for employees and customers. Regular maintenance reduces allergens and respiratory irritants, improves indoor air quality and overall well-being. Maintaining the system’s energy efficiency means big savings on utility bills by reducing unnecessary energy consumption. By fixing minor issues before they become major, servicing extends the life of the HVAC equipment and reduces costly repairs or replacements, overall value and reliability for business.

More Tips for Business Owners

These will further improve air quality in commercial spaces, ensuring a healthier environment for employees and customers:

Replace HVAC filters regularly to ensure good airflow and reduce dust and allergens.
Schedule ventilation system inspections to prevent blockages and consistent airflow.
Educate staff on air quality to minimize pollutants and keep the workspace clean.
Position purifiers and plants strategically in high traffic or enclosed areas.

These combined will create an environment that prioritizes the well-being and productivity of everyone in the workspace.

How HVAC Pros Can Help

Certified HVAC pros at Oxford Mechanical work every day to maintain the efficiency and reliability of your HVAC system. By working with experienced techs regularly, you can ensure your system is running at its best, reducing energy bills and preventing unexpected breakdowns.

Annual maintenance plans are a structured way to keep your HVAC system in top shape, addressing issues before they become major.